What The Bible Teaches: Numbers

CONTRIBUTOR

JOHN J.STUBBS

John Stubbs was born into a christian family in Co. Durham, England, saved as a boy of 11, and received into assembly fellowship in London at the age of 12. Three assemblies in Co. Durham and one in Shipley, Yorkshire commended him to the work of the Lord in 1965, his first labours being in Malaysia until 1969 when he returned to the UK where he continued to engage in gospel work and ministry. In 1972 he moved to Castle Douglas where he laboured for twelve years before moving to Mayfield assembly near Edinburgh. He has served the Lord in many parts of the UK as well as in Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. He has written Is the Bible the Word of God?; Misunderstood Texts of Holy Scripture; The Person of Christ; and has jointly authored a further book on the Person of Christ. He has contributed many articles to magazines, and currently shares responsibility for the Question Box in the Believer’s Magazine.

PREFACE

The publishers have commissioned this Old Testament series of commentaries to complement the completed set of New Testament commentaries issued under the general title What the Bible Teaches. Together they seek to provide an accessible and useful tool for the study of, and meditation on, Scripture.

While there is no shortage of commentaries currently available on the various books of the Old Testament it was felt that there was no complete series that sought simply to apply the message of Genesis through to Malachi to the concerns of believers today.

The authors of these volumes are not scholars of the original languages and rely on others for guidance on the best modern views of word meanings and similar matters. However all the authors share the conviction that the Bible in its entirety is the Word of God. They believe it to be reliable, accurate and intended for our learning (Rom 15.4). This view has been explained further by the Editor in a short series of articles that appeared in The Believer’s Magazine, also published by John Ritchie Ltd., in 1999.

The two Testaments fit together so that principles and illustrations from the Old are brought to bear on issues that arise on nearly every page of the New. Knowledge of the Old is therefore an indispensable aid to the proper understanding of the New. In particular the Lord Jesus can be seen in prophecy and picture again and again. He, Himself, as described in the Gospels, is an exemplar of this approach to the Old Testament through His constant reference to people and incidents whose histories are recorded for us and to those prophetic statements that applied to Him.

Given this understanding of the nature and purpose of the Scriptures, the main lessons of the books are considered and applied to our circumstances today by authors experienced in preaching and teaching the Word of God.

Since no attempt is being made to produce an academic series the technical apparatus has been kept to a minimum. Where authors have judged it of value attention is drawn to linguistic and other issues. Transliteration, where appropriate, is accompanied by reference to the numerical system devised by Strong to allow the reader without knowledge of the original languages to gain access to the various lexical aids which have adopted this system. For clarity, numerical references to New Testament words only are given in italics, following the practice used in Strong’s Concordance.

The system of transliteration generally used is that adopted by the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (TWOT), edited by Harris, Archer and Waltke, and published by Moody Press, Chicago, 1980. However, there are occasions when account has been taken of the commonly recognised English spelling of some Hebrew words.

References to Scripture without attribution are taken from the Authorised (King James) Version. Where other translations are quoted the source is given. Measurements given in the Authorised Version have been translated, where appropriate, into their metric equivalents.

Since the commentaries do not necessarily follow a verse-by-verse approach, and to save space and cost, the text of Scripture is not included. It is assumed that all readers have available a copy of the Bible.

The complete Old Testament is expected to be covered in around fifteen to eighteen volumes. These will not appear in the order in which they are found in the Scriptures but simply in order of completion by the authors commissioned for the series.

W.S. STEVELY

D.E. WEST

ABBREVIATIONS

AV Authorised Version (known in USA as King James Version)

JND New Translation by J. N. Darby

LXX Septuagint (ancient translation of the Old Testament into Greek, often quoted in the New Testament)

Newberry The AV as edited by Thomas Newberry; also known as The Englishman’s Bible

NEB New English Bible, 1970

NT New Testament

OT Old Testament

RSV Revised Standard Version (revision of the American Standard Version)

RV Revised Version, 1885 (published in England, revision of the AV)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Ashley, Timothy R. The New International Commentary on the Old Testament: The Book of Numbers. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1999.

Quite scholarly in its content with many useful footnotes.

Coates, C. A. An Outline of the Book of Numbers. London: Stow Hill Bible and Tract Depot.

Coates is a very sweet and spiritual writer. If the reader is careful about some of the views presented, there will be much profit to be enjoyed in the book.

Cook, F. C. The Speaker’s Commentary, Vol. 1, Part 2: Leviticus — Deuteronomy. London: John Murray, 1877.

Without doubt a good work and contains much to help illustrate the text, but, if turning to it for spiritual food, the reader would be disappointed.

Darby, J. N. Synopsis of the Books of the Bible, Vol. 1: Numbers. London: Stow Hill Bible and Tract Depot, 1957. Several reprints.

One of the most helpful of all Darby’s works.

Davies, Eryl W. The New Century Bible Commentary. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1995.

Based on the Revised Standard Version. Shows the overarching structure of Numbers by focusing on three dominant themes: the theology of the land, the significance of the role of the priest, and the holiness and purity of the emerging nation of Israel.

Douglas, J. D. (Ed) The Illustrated Bible Dictionary. Inter-Varsity Press, 1980.

One of the best Bible Dictionaries available.

Ellicott, C. J. A Bible Commentary for English Readers, Vol. 1: Genesis to Numbers. Cassell & Co., Ltd.

One of the best in general commentaries on Scripture.

Fereday, W. W. Jonah and Balaam. John Ritchie Ltd., 1992.

Fereday’s writings are always most helpful, and the section of the book dealing with Balaam and his parables is no exception.

Gaebelein, A. C. The Annotated Bible, Vol. 1: The Book of Numbers. USA: Loizeaux Brothers, Inc., 1970.

Brief but helpful introduction to and outline of each chapter.

Grant, F. W. The Numerical Bible: The Pentateuch. New York: Loizeaux Brothers, 1956.

Works on the belief in the numerical structure of Scripture. Some readers may not see this, but his comments on the chapters themselves are suggestive, spiritual, and thought provoking.

Gray, James Comper. The Biblical Museum. Old Testament: Vol. 2, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. London: Eliot Stock, 1877.

Helpful in suggesting divisions and furnishing anecdotes. It is not critical, but popular.

Heslop, W. G. Nuggets From Numbers. Kregel Publications, 1975.

A simple and helpful book containing spiritual lessons from Numbers.

Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown. A Commentary on the Whole Bible. Regency Reference Library. Zondervan Publishing House. 1992.

C. H. Spurgeon said of this work: It contains so great a variety of information that if man had no other exposition he would find himself at no great loss if he possessed this and used it diligently.

Keil, C. F. and Delitzsch F. Commentary on the Old Testament, The Pentateuch: Numbers. Massachusetts: Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., 1966 (Reprint).

A scholarly and very conservative work with a good deal of quotation in Hebrew which some readers may find difficult to read.

Kelly, William. Lectures Introductory to the Study of The Pentateuch: Numbers. London: W. H. Broom, 1871.

The reader will find helpful instruction from this work; especially in the remarks on the spiritual connection and order of the chapters.

Law, Henry. Christ is All. London, 1862.

Selected themes in Numbers. Simple, instructive and full of Christ. Illustrates many gospel truths.

Mackintosh, C.H. Notes on the book of Numbers. USA: Loizeaux Brothers Inc., 1972. Several reprints.

Mackintosh is a must for those who desire good teaching on the Pentateuch. His writings are very readable and enjoyable. His writings on the Pentateuch are a spiritual classic.

McGee, J. Vernon. Through The Bible Commentary Series. The Law. Numbers. Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999.

Somewhat sketchy and rather racy commentary, but written in a very simple, lively and anecdotal style.

Morrish. New and Concise Bible Dictionary. London: C. A. Hammond Trust Bible Depot.

Gives a short survey of each of the books of the Bible. Helpful in the doctrines of Christianity, the dispensational dealings of God and prophecy. A dictionary that has the advantage of giving spiritual meaning and application in its coverage.

Riggans, Walter. The Daily Study Bible: Numbers. Edinburgh: Saint Andrew Press, 1986.

Helpful and useful. Combines exposition of the passage with application to Christ and christian teaching in the New Testament.

Spurrel, Helen. A Translation of the Old Testament Scriptures from the Original Hebrew. London: James Nisbet & Co., 1985.

A fresh and interesting translation which can be most helpful to refer to in studying the Old Testament.

Tatford, F. A. Prophet from the Euphrates. Prophetic Witness Publishing House, 1973.

There are very few separate works on Balaam’s parables available. This one is very readable and helpful.

Watson, Robert A. The Expositor’s Bible: The Book of Numbers. London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1894.

Generally helpful and informative. Some interesting applications to various situations of life

Wenham, Gordon J. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries: Numbers. Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press, 1981. Several reprints.

A valuable conservative work which takes the book section by section, seeking to draw out its main themes. Contains helpful additional notes which give a fuller discussion of particular difficulties.

INTRODUCTION AND OUTLINE

The book of Numbers opens with the people of Israel in the wilderness. This shows immediately the character of this interesting book. Its Hebrew name, taken from the fourth word in the first verse of ch.1 in the original, means in the desert. Moses is the undoubted author of this book. In it he writes down a personal record of events in Israel’s national life as they travelled through the desert (see ch.33.2). If Leviticus is the book of the priesthood, Numbers is the book of pilgrimage. In Leviticus the Tabernacle is more prominent, but in Numbers the wilderness is the situation in which God’s people are found. We do not read in Leviticus of the ordering of the Camp, the conveying of the Tabernacle, the blowing of the trumpets, or the wearing of the ribband of blue. All these are to be found only in Numbers. This serves to show the differences between the books of the Pentateuch. Numbers is the book of Israel’s journeyings, but sadly it is also the book of their murmurings. Again and again the people are discontented, and it is a mercy that God remained faithful to His promise. Had it not been for the humility and intercession of Moses the mediator, God would have destroyed them and made of him a great nation (14.10-19).

Although Numbers derives its common name from the various numerical lists it contains, these form a small part of the record. The book is very much more than a census of the people. In the main it describes nearly forty years in the history of Israel as they journeyed from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab. Most of the incidents found in Numbers occurred in the second and thirty-ninth year of their journey. Typically, Numbers presents the believer as a pilgrim passing through this world (compare 1 Pet 2.11).

The book may be conveniently divided into three parts:

1. From Rameses to Sinai – 1.1 to 10.10 – Direction for the journey

2. From Sinai to Kadesh – 10.11 to 19.22 – Delay in the journey

3. From Kadesh to Nebo – 20.1 to 36.13 – Dangers facing the journey.

In the first main division of this book the people are made ready for the journey. Three words sum up this section – organisation, purification, and anticipation.

In chs.1 to 4 we have ORGANISATION. There is the census of the warriors (ch.1), the order of the Camp (ch.2), the service of the Levites (ch.3), and the vessels which had to be carried (ch.4). From this we learn that God is a God of order, and chooses and fits His servants as they move in testimony for Him in this world.

Then, in chs.5-8, we have PURIFICATION. In ch.5 the Camp is to be kept pure and there is the trial of jealousy. In ch.6 is the law of the Nazarite. In ch.7 the altar is dedicated and the princes bring their offerings. In ch.8 the Levites are cleansed and consecrated for their work. There is a moral order here. First our affections must be tested in the wilderness of this world (ch.5). Then true separation to God should result out of love for Christ (ch.6). If it does not, it can become cold and legal. This is followed by the offerings of ch.7. Worship to God is truly acceptable to Him when it comes from those who love Him and are living devoted lives. Finally, in 8.1-4, we have reference to the lampstand. All our service and worship should be done in the light of the sanctuary. Thus there is a message for the believer in the setting and sequence of these chapters and the themes they contain.

In the final section, chs.9 & 10, we have ANTICIPATION. There is the second Passover, the law of the cloud, and the law of trumpets. Israel, as they anticipated entrance into the land, were guided by the cloud, the trumpets, and the Ark. Each of these forms of guidance suggests the interest of the Godhead in the movements of God’s people. The cloud speaks of the Holy Spirit, the trumpets of the Word of God, and the Ark of the person of Christ. The Christian needs the help of all three in travelling onward to the glory in heaven.

The record in 10.11-19.22 is one of failure after failure. It begins with movement from Sinai, continues with much murmuring in the wilderness, and ends in misery, with nearly 15,000 dying in the plague of 16.41-50. In ch.11 they rejected the manna. In ch.12 they rejected Moses. In ch.13 they rejected the inheritance. In ch.14 they rejected God’s discipline. In ch.15 they rejected the law. In ch.16 they rejected the priesthood. In ch.17 they rejected God’s dealings with sin. In chs.15-19 there is hardly any historical narrative. Silence, sin, and stalemate sum up these last five chapters of this section of Numbers. This was thirty-eight wasted years for Israel as they wandered in the wilderness. Instead of going on with God they murmured and gave both Moses and Aaron a very difficult time. What were they doing during these years? Other Scriptures give us some indication. They neglected the rite of circumcision (Josh 5.5), they disobeyed the commandments of Jehovah (Ezek 20.10-26), and Amos the prophet mentions that they carried idols while in these wilderness wanderings (Amos 5.26). From Amos 5.25 it is evident that they kept up some form of religious service, but such was their state that God was not glorified, His presence and power were not known to the extent that they should have been, and the people thus demonstrated how very far from God they had drifted. The story should have been very different, for at Kadesh (chs.13 & 14) they were near the border of the land and had only to believe God’s promise and enter into Canaan. Instead of this, tragically they were marked by unbelief, and as a consequence their carcasses fell in the wilderness (Heb 3.17). From this, the believer must learn to be careful not to fail through lack of faith to enter into the things that God has for us in Christ and thus be hindered from progressing as a pilgrim through this passing world.

At last, after all the delay, the journey recommences in ch.20. In chs.20-25 we have the NEW GENERATION in the new movement toward the land. In these chapters there are the dangers of different enemies that Israel had to face before entering their inheritance – the Edomite (natural relationships), the Canaanite (materialism and commerce), the Amorite (human wisdom), the king of Bashan (ease and prosperity), Balaam (unseen evil influences), and the Moabite (idolatry and lust). In chs. 26 & 27 we have the NEW CENSUS. The people are numbered, the law of inheritance in the distribution of the land is adjusted to accommodate the situation of a family where there is no male, and Moses announces a new leader. In chs.28-36 there are NEW INSTRUCTIONS - laws touching ceremonies and offerings to be kept and presented in the land (chs.28 & 29), and laws concerning vows of a man and a woman (ch.30) - and the Midianites are punished (ch.31). The remaining chapters are mainly concerned with the division of the land. At the end, in spite of Israel’s failure earlier in the book, God is faithful and fulfils His promise in bringing them into the land.

In summing up the book of Numbers, there is no doubt about its authority as a record and that it contains a solemn message for today. The Lord Jesus referred to the incident of the brazen serpent in Numbers 21 as an illustration of the way of salvation (Jn 3.14). Paul reminds the Corinthians of certain events that befell Israel in the wilderness and applies them most solemnly to that assembly. He states that what happened to Israel in the incidents mentioned are types, and that they are written for the admonition of the believer (1 Cor 10.8-13). So the book of Numbers has many spiritual lessons for the Christian. In the New Testament, Peter, Jude, and John mention the character of Balaam, whose story is given in Numbers 22-24 (2 Pet 2.15; Jude v.11; Rev 2.14). The Hebrew writer contrasts the red heifer in Numbers 19 with the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Heb 9.13-14). Thus, Christ, Paul, the writer to the Hebrews, Peter, Jude, and John all accepted the inspired history and typical value of Numbers. This being the case, the believer can have every confidence in the book and approach it seeking to profit from its searching lessons.

NUMBERS 1

The Numbering of the People

Verses 1-4: The Command to Number

In the book of Leviticus the worship of the people is in view, but in Numbers it is their warfare. Numbers has its own particular theme to dwell upon. In this book it is the journeys of the people of God through the wilderness that the Spirit particularly brings before us. As another has well said, The book of Numbers is more than a mere travelogue tracing Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab. The narratives and laws in Numbers give the conditions of Israel’s possession and enjoyment of the Promised Land. These conditions included an unflinching desire to possess the land God promised, respect for God-ordained leaders, and concern for maintaining the holiness of the covenant community and of the land of promise. Frequent warnings of the danger of rebellion and the certainty of God’s judgment on sin likewise prodded Israel ahead to the goal of possession of the land (Holman Bible Dictionary).

Note four matters in the first four verses relating to Moses numbering the people.

First, WHERE the message was given – in the wilderness of Sinai. The people are viewed in their testimony for God in a hostile scene. It must not be forgotten that the believer today is in an enemy’s land. This is what the world should be to us. As J. N. Darby wrote: This world is a wilderness wide. The Christian cannot really settle here. Peter reminded the believers to whom he wrote that they were strangers and pilgrims (1 Pet 2.11). Their status as strangers and pilgrims motivated his appeal to them that they abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. It is a solemn fact that the fallen nature with its pull towards sin is still within the believer. Though this is so, the God who gave provision for His people in the wilderness is able to provide for His people today. Pictures and types of these provisions will be noted in going through this book.

Second, WHEN the message was given – the first day of the second month, in the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt. Therefore, this period of the numbering of the people took place exactly a month after the Tabernacle was set up and established (see Ex 40.17). There is a lesson here. The sanctuary is first established to ensure that the people have a Divine Centre. The Tabernacle may not be mentioned a great deal in this book, but still there is an important point here. If those who were numbered for warfare had no place to gather round, and no priest in the sanctuary, it certainly would have made their conflicts in the wars of the Lord all the more difficult. The same epistle that reminds believers of spiritual warfare teaches that there is a habitation of God through the Spirit (Eph 2.22; 6.10-17). The believer will be helped and encouraged to prosper and overcome in the christian conflict by the blessing, comfort, and security of a Divine Centre. The assembly of God is the New Testament answer to the sanctuary in the desert.

Third, WHY the numbering took place – its main object was the reckoning of the males who were fit for war†. While, however, this is so, it also shows the tender interest and concern that God had for His people. As they moved in the wilderness God’s eye was upon them. All their movements, behaviour, and conflicts were of concern to Him. This is a comforting thought, and one that should be applied to believers today. Certainly, the knowledge of this ought to give courage in the battlefields of life.

Fourth, WHO were to do the numbering – at the end of v.3 God requires that both Moses and Aaron were to perform this census. This would very much emphasise to the people the importance of the occasion. In the second numbering which took place thirty-eight years later, again it was Moses and the High Priest who were to number the people. Only, on that occasion, it was Eleazar, Aaron’s son. All this, together with the fact that the numbering was to be done in the presence of the twelve princes of Israel, suggests some lessons. Moses represents authority from God. Aaron speaks of priestly observation. The princes set forth leadership. In witnessing as believers in the wilderness of this world, listening to the authoritative voice of God is important. The priestly support of the Lord Jesus as He observes in every trial that is experienced is greatly needed. In addition, it is good to have the fellowship of those who take the rule over us. Experiencing these blessings, the believer will be fortified for the spiritual battle.

Verses 5-16: The Appointed Assistants

In this section reference is made to the men from the twelve tribes of Israel who were to help Moses in the work of the numbering. The first matter to note is that these leaders were chosen by God. Here is an important point. The choosing of these men was not left to the people or even to their great leader Moses. The command to Moses was, These are the names of the men that shall stand with you. God then chose His own rulers for each tribe. This should serve as a reminder that even in the present day of grace God’s ways are still the same. He chooses His leaders to serve Him among His people. The idea, for example, of voting for those who are to be overseers in God’s assembly is foreign to the teaching of the New Testament Scriptures. Those who stand before the saints today must be men of God’s choice. In the assembly of God, those who are clearly fitted of God to lead should be obvious to the believers. Paul writing to the young assembly in Thessalonica exhorts them to know them that labour among you, and are over you in the Lord (1 Thess 5.12). He addresses these saints apart from their leaders, and shows what is to be their attitude towards them. The fact that the scope of their authority is in the Lord indicates that such men are not appointed by human election, but rather on the basis of relationship to the Lord.

The twelve chosen men here are described in v.16 as, the renowned of the congregation, princes of the tribes of their fathers, heads of the thousands in Israel. These twelve princes are referred to again in 7.2. There they bring their offerings for the easy conveyance of the Tabernacle and its service. It is probable that the same rulers are in view in Exodus 35.27-28 where they gave offerings for the High Priest’s garments and service. Putting these references together, if these men illustrate the work of leaders today among the Lord’s people, then there are interesting points to ponder. Leaders in the assemblies should seek to maintain what is priestly among the saints. They should encourage the saints in their priestly functions. They should manifest a real interest in and care for believers in their trials and behaviour - here the princes stood with Moses and Aaron on this important occasion of the census. Finally, with exercise and real soul concern, they should seek to provide that which would help the assembly in its witness in this world. Their responsibility is great. Let overseers who read this apply the principles seen in the activity of the princes of Israel. Let also the believers in the assembly support their leaders, pray for them, and do nothing which would make their spiritual work harder.

Leaving this section it might be of further interest to draw attention to the meaning of the names of these twelve princes. It should be pointed out that for one or more names there is a lack of absolute certainty as to the meaning. In addition to F. W. Grant’s Numerical Bible, John Ritchie’s Scripture Proper Names, and The Proper Names of the Bible by John Farrer have been consulted. F. W. Grant has some useful deeper lessons on this, and the reader is recommended to study his comments. Since, in Numbers, the princes are viewed as pictures of leaders it may not be unprofitable to consider the significance of their names.

First we have Elizur of the tribe of Reuben. His name means God is my strength, or God is my Rock. Is this not a very good feature to be seen in a leader of God’s people? Stability of character and dependence on God for strength is very important. The character of the day in which we live, and the responsibilities of men who care for the flock of God, call for spiritual backbone. Certainly, the saints can well do without weaklings in the leadership. Let us pray that such men will be raised up of God.

Next, of the tribe of Simeon, is Shelumiel. His name means the friend of God. A true leader should be a friendly man, for Titus 1.8 says that an overseer should be a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men. Such a man, who is in touch with God and enjoys fellowship with Him, will certainly be friendly in his disposition towards the saints. He will have time for the Lord’s people and a real care for them.

The next in order of tribal choice is Judah of which Nahshon is named as a prince. This prince is Aaron’s brother-in-law (Ex 6.23). It should be remembered that these men were chosen by God, and Nahshon would not fill this position because Aaron chose him. A reminder that, even today, no overseer in God’s assembly should push to have a relative on the oversight unless all are agreed that the man is fitted of God for the work. F. W. Grant comments that this name means a diviner, not necessarily in a bad sense. It is the word used for diligent observation (1 Kings 20.33); and divining, apart from the heathenism so much associated with it, is but the discernment in the present of the future. If this is so, here is a fine quality for a leader. Such a man will be a real help to God’s people. It is good when a leader who has an understanding of the mind of God is able to show from the Word of God something of what is yet going to happen in God’s future programme. Leaders today should be often encouraging and challenging believers to live more devoted lives in the present in view of the coming of the Lord and subsequent events.

Issachar is the next tribe mentioned. The prince of this tribe is Nethaneel. His name means given of God. There is instruction in this name too. It should not be forgotten that true elders or overseers among the saints are really gifts from God. Such men are referred to among the gifts God has given in Romans 12.8. It should be the earnest prayer of the saints that men gifted of God be raised up to lead them. What a blessing it is to see leaders not appointed by men but anointed by the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who makes overseers (Acts 20.28).

Next, in v.9, is mentioned the tribe of Zebulun from whom Eliab is selected to be their prince. His name can mean my God (is) father. This has a nice significance. The thought of God as Father would certainly suggest His care, compassion, and concern for those who are His own children. Our God is not only the Father of us, but seeks to be a Father to us. It is good when men who take the lead among the saints manifest these qualities. An overseer who expresses the Father in his life and conduct towards the saints is a blessed asset indeed in any assembly of the Lord’s people. If an overseer knows not how to rule as a father in his own house, then how can he, asks the apostle Paul, take care of the church of God (1 Tim 3.5). Notice in this reference the change from rule to care. This is also significant, for it shows that leadership is not merely one of rule, but of care among the saints. In the spiritual sense overseers should have a fatherly concern for the Lord’s people. What a difference it makes in any assembly when this is so. May overseers be exercised to exhibit fatherly features and act as if God truly is their Father.

In v.10 Elishama is mentioned from Ephraim. His name means God of hearing. God is the God who hears and answers prayer. It should go without saying that an overseer in God’s assembly should be a man of prayer. He will be a man who believes that his God hears the cries of His people. As he seeks to guide the people of God, and especially in times of problems and crises, he will know that his only resource is God Himself. He will know what it is to cry to the God who hears. The words of Samuel will be before him: God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you (1 Sam 12.23).

Again, in v.10, Gamaliel of the tribe of Manasseh is called to be a prince. He too has a suggestive name which means recompense of God. The work of a leader in assembly life can be a very burdensome and perhaps even a thankless task. It can often involve toil, trial, and tears. His care for the people of God may not be appreciated, but there is a reward for the faithful overseer. God Himself, in the great coming day, will recompense the unselfish, humble, and exemplary work of the elder. Peter tells us that when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away (1 Pet 5.4).

Next, in v.11, comes Abidan from the tribe of Benjamin. Father of a judge, is the meaning of his name. How can this be applied to the work of the leader or overseer? Perhaps the thought of judgment itself is one that should be emphasised. This is an essential quality of a good leader. He ought to be a man of judgment. There is great value in having such leaders among the saints. More than ever, wisdom and discernment and clear judgment in handling matters are a crying need. This only comes with men of long experience and men, too, who spend time in the presence of God. It is true to say that there are not a few disasters that might well have been averted if the elders had only handled a crisis situation with wise judgment. Pray that men of this calibre will be raised up as leaders.

In v.12 the tribe of Dan supplies Ahiezer. This man has an equally interesting name - brother of help. How good when a leader of the saints is both brotherly and helpful. It is sad indeed when a professed leader is unhelpful. What confidence it begets in the Lord’s people when their leaders are men available to them to give spiritual help. Overseeing brethren ought to be helpful towards those who are under their charge. They should act in a brotherly way toward the flock of God, as leaders of God’s people. How greatly blessed an assembly is that can number such men among them.

In v.13, Pagiel of the tribe of Asher is mentioned as their prince. Prayer of God, is the significance of this man’s name. This repeats a similar thought to the meaning of Elishama’s name, and emphasises the importance of prayer to God. A true leader of the people of God will be a man who will pray much to God. Amongst other things he will pray for wisdom from God to guide the people aright.

In v.14 there is Eliasaph of the tribe of Gad. His name means whom God added. When God adds a true leader among His people it is with a view to their strengthening, and to proper order. Ideally, and scripturally, every assembly should have its spiritual leaders. Without elders truly added by God an assembly of Christians is really lacking in one of its main needs. Paul and Barnabas, returning to places where they had seen people saved in their first missionary journey, ordained elders in every church (Acts 14.23). Under God’s guidance they saw the need of adding godly rule and leadership among the churches they had planted.

Finally, the last named prince is Ahira from the tribe of Naphtali (v.15). The meaning of his name is rather different from the other princes and a most solemn one. It is given as brother of evil. This may be considered as a strange meaning to apply to leadership, but God’s leaders must lead careful lives, keeping clean and clear from evil. No elder should be a brother of evil. When such a man sins it is a tragedy indeed. Paul, speaking of elders who have sinned, says, Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear (1 Tim 5.20). May the Lord preserve the leaders of His people in purity and integrity. No assembly of the Lord’s people can afford a blight on its testimony when one of its leaders fails in this way.

Verses 17-19: The Congregation Assembled

In a little more than a year from the exodus there was to be a numbering of the people. Later, in the plains of Moab, there would another numbering (ch.26).

It should be carefully noted that in Exodus 38.25-26 there had been a previous numbering. Remarkably, the total sum there is exactly the same as the number here – 603,550 (v.46). This is an interesting link with Exodus. Because of the same number some have advanced the idea that the numbering here and that of Exodus 38 is the same incident, but there does not seem to be solid ground for this. The numbering of Exodus 38 appears to have been some nine months before this numbering recorded in Numbers 1. The previous numbering was just before the erection of the Tabernacle, but the numbering now is after the Tabernacle has been erected. It is from the Tabernacle that God has spoken to Moses (v.1). Moreover, the purpose in each numbering is quite different. In Exodus 38 it is in connection with the atonement money. There the silver was to form the bases of the pillars of the Tabernacle. The second numbering here is to determine the number of men able to go to war. In the third numbering of ch.26, while it is again all that are able to go forth to war, it is especially with a view to the distribution of the land of Canaan (26.52-55).

In putting these three separate numberings of Israel together there is a feature in each that can be applied to the believer today. The first numbering has in view the worship of the Lord. The second numbering reminds us of responsibility in spiritual conflict. The third numbering is a picture of our heavenly inheritance. The fact that God causes the people to be numbered shows, as already noted, the importance to God of His people and the things He requires of them. Sanctuary worship, spiritual conflict in the world, and entering into the heavenly inheritance should all be very important matters to the believer. The Christian, then, has responsibility in three realms: the sanctuary (the assembly), the world, and the heavenlies. How are we faring in each of these spheres?

It should be of interest to contrast at this point the numbering of the people by David in 2 Samuel 24 and the numbering by Moses here. It might well be asked why the numbering of the people by David was contrary to the mind of God, especially in view of these previous numberings. The immediate and obvious answer is that here the numbering was at the express command of the Lord: as the Lord commanded Moses, so he numbered them in the wilderness (v.19). The numbering by David was not by divine command, but at the instigation of Satan (compare 2 Sam 24.1 with 1 Chr 21.1). It is sad to see at the end of David’s life that he failed in responding to Satan’s temptation. He gave himself over to the sin of pride. His motive was wrong, and his action was not for the glory of God. How searching this is to our own hearts.

How very different is the action of Moses. In ready obedience he responds to the divine instruction and numbers the people. It is a healthy exercise to ask ourselves continually the question when engaging in spiritual service: Am I doing this from the wrong motive of pride, or in obedience to what my Lord commands?.

The numbering in David’s day took over nine months, but here it appears probable from v.18 that the census was completed in just one day. There does not seem any indication in the passage to suggest it took longer. Here the people were assembled together. David had to send Joab and the captains all over the land to accomplish his end. It was therefore easier for Moses to accomplish his task.

In v.18 the people were to (declare) their pedigree. They had to prove they were true Israelites. This had to be done before going forth to war. One reason for this was because of the mixed multitude. These had come out with them from Egypt and, as will be seen later, would be a source of trouble to the people (11.4). Is there anything in the New Testament for the believer today which would correspond to this declaring of the pedigree? There surely is. If every man counted in Numbers 1 had to be a genuine child of Israel then today no one can serve the Lord and engage in spiritual conflict unless they have a spiritual pedigree. There is an example of this in the Epistle to the Philippians where the apostle Paul declares his pedigree in ch.3. In vv.4-7 he renounces his national pedigree. Hebrew of the Hebrews though he was, he counted all as loss that he might have Christ and be found in him. He delights in his heavenly pedigree and sets this forth over against the natural pedigree in which he boasted prior to his conversion. Had he not been converted and known his spiritual pedigree he would have perhaps gone down in history as the greatest Jewish Rabbi that has ever lived. It is important to notice how this pedigree was far more valuable to him than the natural or the national. So, as a necessary preliminary to their journey and going forth to war, the people had to declare their pedigree. Thus, today, none but those who are truly born again can enter on the journey heavenward or fight the Lord’s battles. Nicodemus had to learn that his pedigree according to the flesh, although being beyond reproach, was not enough for entrance into the kingdom of God. Only by new birth would the far more important spiritual pedigree be his.

It is a blessed and wonderful thing to be able in daily life to declare our pedigree, yet it often happens that a true believer in certain situations will shrink from doing just this. It may bring reproach for Christ to do so. It may result in being unpopular. It may even lead to suffering and persecution. May each believer be helped to have the spiritual courage and love to the Lord to declare his or her spiritual pedigree.

Verses 20-46: The Numbering of the Tribes

In this section the census is taken of those who were able to go forth to war†. All under twenty and all females are excluded in this numbering. Also, it should be noticed that there is no account taken of the mixed multitude. These observations point to the conclusion that the whole host of Israel must have numbered over 2,000,000 souls. Earlier, at the time of the journey from Rameses to Succoth, those who were numbered amounted to 600,000 (Ex 12.37-38). This is an amazing increase from the small number of Jacob’s household who went down to Egypt over 200 years before (Gen 46.26). Thus, with the further increase apparent in v.46, it can be seen that God’s promise to Abraham was already being fulfilled. God had said to him, I will make of thee a great nation (Gen 12.2), and again, I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered (Gen 13.16). In this very book of Numbers there is mention by Balaam in his first parable of the increase of the nation. He says, Who can count the dust of Jacob? (23.10). What a wonderful sight it must have been for Balaam as he looked down upon the many tents of the people, and yet he saw only the fourth part of the nation! Who would have thought that from such a small number and with such humble beginnings God would so marvellously increase them that they would become a great nation? It shows that nothing can prevent God from fulfilling His own word and promise.

God had blessed Israel with the numerical strength necessary to go into the land of Canaan and conquer it. It must not be forgotten that God’s original purpose was that the people should go forward and in a few days enter into the land of promise. Had they not sinned against God as recorded in Numbers 13 and 14 they would very soon have furthered God’s purpose for them. Tragically their failure robbed them of possessing the blessing of their inheritance. At the time of their numbering in ch.1 they were ready, but instead of the rest of the book telling how they progressed and triumphed in conquering and possessing the land, it is recorded that they failed God and thus frustrated His plan for them. The males over twenty years counted here would die in the wilderness and never see the land. All this is most solemn. Although this book of the wilderness is not without its victory as seen at its close, it is especially the book of the failures of God’s people. It should be noticed here that, while it is wonderful to see God’s promise being fulfilled in the great number of the people, it is also very searching to find that His plan for them was being repressed by their sin. Further on in the book these failures will be commented on and lessons applied. Meanwhile, let us make sure that we do not fail by leaning on our own devices like Israel did and so hinder our further progress in God’s path for us.

The numbering at the beginning of this book is in view of combat. The people are to go into the land to conquer and possess. Therefore conflict with enemies is anticipated. Thus, in connection with each tribe, the recurring phrase is, all that were able to go forth to war. None but those who could declare their pedigree and who were twenty years old and upward could engage in these battles.

Ephesians 6.10-18 is the great New Testament passage on christian conflict. The conflict of Israel’s soldiers was literal and physical and with a view to possessing an earthly inheritance. The conflict of the believer is spiritual, waging a war with spiritual enemies who seek to rob the child of God of the enjoyment of the heavenly inheritance. Only believers have spiritual blessings (Eph 1.3), and only believers can engage in spiritual battles. The unbeliever has no strength against the enemy. He has no indwelling Spirit to help. He cannot count on any spiritual provision from the Lord to assist him. In Ephesians 2.1 the sinner is dead spiritually and therefore completely helpless. In contrast to this, the true believer is able to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might (Eph 6.10). The christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. The conflict of Ephesians 6 is not with the flesh as in Galatians 5.17, but it is with spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph 6.12). Since the believer is fighting against an enemy in a spiritual world he needs the spiritual equipment described in vv.13-17. It should not be thought that the height of the believer’s position with Christ and the blessedness of the privileges mentioned in that epistle bring one on to ground unassailable to the enemy. Let us then put on the whole armour of God in this battle.

There is no doubt that there are persons today who give evidence in their lives of a spiritual pedigree, but, alas, they allow the enemy to make inroads and spoil their lives. This leads on to the application of the lesson to be drawn from the age span of those numbered for combat. That was confined to the males twenty years old and upward. Would this not speak of spiritual maturity? There is a great need in our lives of spiritual growth. A believer who is a weakling and who lacks spiritual courage is certainly no match for the enemy. So, in addition to declaring his pedigree, an Israelite to be ready for military combat had to be at least twenty years of age. It is important that the believer sees the need of spiritual growth and development. An immature believer is easily taken advantage of by the enemy. Are we then growing spiritually? Many believers have not grown from the little children stage to the young men stage (1 Jn 2.13-14). God wants all to grow spiritually, to be as young men in His family.

Notice that the young men are strong, the Word of God abideth in them, and they have overcome the wicked one. These three features always mark those who are spiritually mature. Spiritual energy is sustained by the Word of God, and by the same Word the wicked one is overcome. If then the believer is to be really fitted for the battle he or she must be a young man in the sense of 1 John 2.14. Yet it is these young men whom John particularly cautions to beware of the world (v.15). It is one thing to overcome Satan, but now there is the world. Victory in the past is not in itself sufficient to guarantee victory in the future. The world is an enemy of the believer too. The great cure for loving the world is doing the will of God; he that doeth the will of God abideth forever (v.17). May each of us realise the great need of maturity. By developing spiritually the believer will be in a better state not only to recognise the enemy, but also to engage him and overcome.

Further comments can be made on the tribes mentioned in vv.20-46. Gad (v.24), whose role is more than once to fill the gaps, replaces Levi who is absent from the numbering. This tribe is ranked with Reuben and Simeon because he was placed with these in the Encampment (2.10-16). Also, unlike the other tribes, Gad’s number is not in unbroken hundreds. Barnes in his Commentary says, The enrolment, being taken principally for military purposes (compare Num 1.3,20), would naturally be arranged by hundreds, fifties, etc. (compare 2 Kings 1.9,11,13). In eleven tribes the number enrolled consists of complete hundreds. The difference, in this respect, observable in the case of the tribe of Gad here (Num 1.25), and of the tribe of Reuben at the later census (Num 26.7), is probably to be accounted for by the pastoral, and consequently nomadic, habits of these tribes, which rendered it difficult to bring all their members together at once for a census.

Judah (v.26) has the largest number of all the tribes. This is the tribe that would be very prominent in Israel. It is the tribe from which our Lord Jesus sprang. C. J. Ellicot says, The importance of this enrolment, as affording the means of tracing the genealogy of Christ, must not be overlooked. The great increase of this tribe reminds us of the prophecy of Jacob: Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise (Gen 49.8). Thus the tribe was destined to have precedence over the rest.

In v.32 the children of Joseph are referred to. Both Ephraim and Manasseh are named as separate tribes and replace Joseph. According to Jacob’s words Ephraim is to take precedence over Manasseh (Gen 48.5-20).

Levi is omitted in this list and is not to be numbered. The last section of the chapter supplies the reason for this.

Verses 47-54: The Levites Separated

In the closing section of this opening chapter of Numbers the reason is given why the Levites were not included in the numbering of the tribes. They were especially set apart for service in the Tabernacle. In the main there are three interesting subjects in these verses. The work of the Levites, the sanctity of the Tabernacle, and the obedience of the people.

The work of the Levites (vv.47-52)

Later chapters will give us greater details of the call and charge of the Levites. Here it is sufficient briefly to draw attention to the responsibility of the Levites in relation to the Tabernacle. The Levites were set aside by God for a very important ministry. It was a responsible ministry. It was a sacred ministry. Because of this they were not included in the reckoning. In ch.3 they have their own numbering. There they are numbered, not as here from twenty years and upwards and for war, but from one month old and upward with a view to service in the sanctuary. This gives another picture of spiritual life. The Christian is not only a warrior in field of battle, as seen in the purpose of the numbering of the tribes, but he is at the same time a worker in the sanctuary. This is a double picture of the believer.

This chapter, then, gives a good example of how more than one type can set forth different aspects of the same person. In this case the believer is seen typified in the warriors and the workers. It is good to remember that every believer is a servant. Romans 6 shows this truth. Through God’s grace and power every believer has become a servant to God (v.22). The service of the Levites consisted of erecting and also taking down the Tabernacle, and conveying it and its vessels in the journeys through the wilderness. Their service was sanctuary service. This was the character of their service. So, in the New Testament, the believer serves in the sanctuary and for the sanctuary. The sanctuary today is the assembly of God. Are we serving the Lord in the assembly and is our service with a view to its blessing and prosperity? There is need to make sure that our service is not independent and apart from the assembly.

A careful reading of Romans 12.4-8 will show the responsibility of spiritual service toward the assembly. Just as the branches of the tribe of Levi had each their own work to do, so, in this passage, distinctness of service in the ministry is recognised. Service, then, should ever bind the Lord’s people together and build up the assembly.

The Levites also were custodians of the vessels of the Tabernacle. They carried what would have been to them sacred treasure. To the world looking on they seemed to carry strange baggage. Today, in the testimony, there is a far greater treasure than the Levites carried. Heavenly truths are a rich treasure indeed, and should be as jealously cared for as were the vessels the Levites carried. What these heavenly truths are as typified in the vessels of the sanctuary will be seen in ch.4.

The sanctity of the Tabernacle (v.53)

In v.53 the position of the Levites around the Tabernacle is designed of God so that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel. They were located between the Tabernacle and the Camp of Israel. The Tabernacle was to be preserved from the people approaching too near, or from any risk of it being touched by the common people. Here is emphasised the holiness of God’s sanctuary. The local assembly is no less a holy place (1 Cor 3.16). In the early apostolic days the people of God and the assemblies of God were so conspicuously holy that none but those truly wrought upon by God and with a real exercise would dare to be among them (Acts 5.13). Another way in which we see the sanctity of the sanctuary in the desert is in the words of v.51: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death. The stranger may mean a non-Levite, or, as The Pulpit Commentary suggests, any unauthorised person (see 16.40). There is a very real danger today of the Lord’s people forgetting the holiness of God’s house. Let us then, if we are in God’s assembly, seek in every possible practical way to be holy. In one sense the people should have been very thankful for the presence of the Levites. Without them being located there God’s people would have been consumed by God’s wrath. The people’s wellbeing in this particular depended very much on the Levites, whose intermediary position was really a great blessing to the tribes.

"The obedience of the people (v.54)

It is lovely to read in the last verse of the chapter that, the children of Israel did according to all that the Lord commanded Moses, so did they. They manifested a wonderful obedience. It is heartening to see this spirit marking the people right at the beginning of the book. This healthy note of obedience is found in the last verse of each of the first four chapters of Numbers. How different the story would have been for Israel had they continued this remarkable spirit in their journeys. Instead of Numbers being a record of obedience so delightful to God it goes on to show the disobedience, the rebellion, and the complete failure of the people. Only by obedience to God, whatever the cost, will we be kept safe in God’s path. Obedience should be an ongoing experience in the life of the believer. This is what God is looking for in the life of a child of God. It would have been a big task to number the tribes as God required and see that all the details of His instructions regarding the Levites were carried out, but how good to read, so did they. May we be marked by a similar spirit.

Notes

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3 C. A. Coates has an interesting comment on the numbering from twenty years and upward: Ceasing from warfare is not contemplated in this chapter, nor such decline as would unfit us for it. It is one of the perfections of Scripture that it should be said here repeatedly ‘from twenty years old and upward’ without any mention of an age when exemption would be granted. In relation to ‘the wars of the Lord’ there is no retiring age; we are to be soldiers to the end.

20 As regards the numbers given for the census in this chapter, the writer accepts these as literal and accurate despite the controversy some have attempted to raise. For those who wish more information on this, the extensive note by Keil & Delitzsch should be helpful.

NUMBERS 2

The Organisation of the Camp

Verses 1-2: The Stations of the Tribes

This chapter shows God as a God of order. In ch.1 He is seen as a God who cares, but now instruction is given for the organisation of the Camp of Israel. The subject of the chapter links well with 1 Corinthians 14 which is the New Testament passage showing how God delights in order among His people. So, here, the tribes are beautifully arranged around the Tabernacle. It is this that impressed Balaam later in ch.24.

Note in the opening verse that both Moses and Aaron are addressed. One reason for this is that in this chapter details are given of the placing of Aaron and the branches of the tribe of Levi around the Tabernacle.

In v.2, as to the positioning of the tribes around the Tabernacle, there are three matters of interest. Each of them gives good lessons for the believer today. In the tribes pitching by their standards is seen the divine order of the Camp of Israel. In their being located far off from the Tabernacle is seen that reverence which God demands and in which He delights. The tents being pitched about or around the Tabernacle would serve to emphasise the importance of God’s sanctuary being the centre of